Over the past 3 months I've come to believe that Steve Phillips works magic with his tiny acupuncture needles! I didn't think that I would ever find the relief that I'm experiencing now.
My story is a common one in which my low back pain and sciatica continued to worsen year after year despite my best efforts. Each attempt met with more pain and frustration. I sought medical intervention and was seen by several very kind Physical Therapists, given medication and eventually referred to Kaiser's Pain Clinic. I was offered a procedure that would destroy the nerves near my problem joints, but may only be temporary and the nerves might reconnect in different pathways. I wanted to explore a less invasive procedure but wasn't optimistic since I had tried 4 years of Pilates and many, many years of Yoga. I remained active and modified my exercise from running to walking yet my mobility decreased and my pain increased. Walking was painful, sitting in a car for more than 20 minutes caused severe pain. My life became constricted and less joyful. The fear that I would continue this downhill spiral frightened me.
I asked the Pain Clinic about acupuncture and was referred to Steve. He is a caring professional who inspires confidence and trust. After 5 sessions I had 2 days pain free and was amazed… I'd forgotten what that felt like. After working with Steve for several months my former life is returning to me. I feel hopeful that I will regain my full mobility and again enjoy my Yoga classes and long walks. Today it is the occasional flare-ups that surprise me, not the absence of pain. I feel very fortunate to have been referred to Steve Phillips. His self-confidence is reassuring and his skills are incredible.
Robin Mcknight, PhD
I have suffered from back pain for many years. I was recently diagnosed with arthritis in my back. Also have neuropathy from chemotherapy. Since previous treatments didn't seem to help, I decided to try acupuncture. After a few treatments with Steve, I began to feel better. I continued to see him and over a 6 week period, my back pain and neuropathy has significantly diminished; I have more energy and a more positive outlook toward my health and well being. I not only like Steve's holistic approach, but his great sense of humor makes sessions enjoyable. I am not extremely fond of needles, but the treatments have been immensely beneficial and so I look forward to my treatments! Thanks Steve!
Lee Miller
I was a skeptic at first because, I had tried another form of acupuncture and found it only helped a small amount, but my husband's back had gone out on him and he could barely walk. A friend told us about Steve Philips' acupuncture clinic and my husband had tried the chiropractor and was in even more pain, so we called Steve. We walked in with my husband bent over and in pain hoping he would walk out with less pain and better posture.
When my husband walked out straight and with less pain I was a believer and made an appointment for myself because I was suffering daily with Interstitial Cystitis (IC) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
I had been seeing many doctors for my issues and only resulted in taking more medication and not relieving much of the pain. After a few appointments I was amazed at how good I started feeling. With help from the acupuncture and Steve knowing just where to treat my problems, I actually started feel better than I had in years. Then when I started getting cold or started feeling bad I would call and my symptoms would disappear within a day.
Before seeing Steve I had a weekend immune system and if I caught a cold or the flu I was down for at the least a week. Now if I feel I am getting sick or I am in pain from the IC and IBS I call him have a treatment. I am either better when I walk out or within a couple of days.
I have watch co-workers, friends and family get sick and when they are on their second bottle of antibiotics or even their first I am over it and never even took any antibiotics.
I call Steve my miracle worker, I know he doesn't like to be called that, but it has helped me tremendously. I take less medication and feel healthier than ever.
If you are reading this you are on the web site and considering treatment, well I wholeheartily believe you need to call and make an appointment, walk in with an open mind and let the acupuncture work for you because it will. Once Steve listens to your reason for being there he will find the right spot and start treatment, it may take a couple of treatments, but you will be amazed at how you will feel.
Mary B.
After a fall two years ago, doctors found signs of multiple sclerosis. Ever since then, Steve has been treating me for that as well as back and leg pain and weakness. Today I feel strong and stable, and I look forward to my future with confidence and enthusiasm. The acupuncture has also helped me a lot with stress and anxiety.
J.G., Female, age 45-50
It is with pleasure that I am writing this testimonial regarding Steve Phillips. I have known him for several years and have come to respect him greatly.
He has done wonders for my back that had been injured years ago in a car accident. He has also helped my osteoarthritis. Steve has proven to be good at everything he tackles.
I can honestly say that Steve is the best acupuncturist I have ever met. Being a nutritionist and having been all over the world, I have come in contact with many in this field. His great knowledge has come from studying abroad in other countries, including China.
Steve is well versed in bodily ailments as well as supplements and other herbal solutions.
For anyone seeking help in the field of acupuncture and herbal medicine, Steve would be the number one choice.
Sincerely, Lois W., age 91
When I met Steve Phillips approximately nine months ago, I was in constant back pain. I was bent over and had to use a cane on a daily basis to even walk across the room. I felt a difference on my 1st treatment. Now since receiving Acupuncture I am no longer bent over in constant pain. I generally walk daily without a cane, with the exception of times I over exert myself lifting or doing yard work(which previously I could do neither). Overall the treatments have changed my life and allowed me to be much more active in the things I enjoy doing. I am deeply thankful.
Ramsey Q., age 55-60
I have been receiving acupuncture treatments from Steve Phillips for over 2 years. I began going in order to get relief for lower back pain, and to improve my immune system. Because I have bad allergies, he also began treating my sinus area as well. The back is fine now, but I continue to go for treatments because it really helps clear my sinus area and gives me relief for my allergy symptoms.
I believe it has also helped my immune system. I don't get sick as often, and when I do get sick – it doesn't seem to be as bad or lengthy as in the past. I have also done some research and found that boosting the immune system is one of the things that has been studied and proven to be helped by acupuncture.
Acupuncture does not hurt, and is relaxing and restful. I have recommended Mr. Phillips to my friends with allergies, back pain, or chronic pain of any nature.
Rita H., age 56
In March 2006 a head doctor of a specialty clinic of a HMO referred me to Steve Phillips for monthly acupuncture treatments. For some years, I've had deteriorating degenerative disc disease that causes pain and stiffness. Over a period of some 20 years I have had a condition called IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) that causes spasms and abdominal discomfort. Acupuncturist Steve Phillips' treatments have greatly reduced these two physical conditions so that I am able to participate in gym workouts, play the piano, and continue the routine of everyday living. I am greatly indebted to Steve Phillips for the benefits I have received from his monthly treatments, and recommend this highly skilled medical professional to all those in need of pain relief and/or discomfort in everyday life.
Swami H., age 65-70
Since beginning treatment with Steve Phillips, L.Ac., my health is much improved. I began treatment on May 8, 2002 as a result of a severe back injury suffered at work–I tripped and fell with a patient in my arms during a lift, pivot, and transfer movement. My diagnosis was severe sprain/strain of the lower lumbar and sacral spine. I have a marked sensitivity to most medications and so am unable to use them at all because the pain relief is never worth the side-effects for me–I have noticed marked changes.
I began treatment with a coordinated chiropractic and acupuncture pair. My pain was relieved right away, it was the acupuncture! I dropped the chiropractic. My pain is relieved, my muscle spasms gone, my posture is much improved. My treatment is consistently accurate, creative, timely and appropriate. I was considering a series of 3 back surgeries to help me regain what I have now from acupuncture (twice per month) and periodic conservative chiropractic ( every 6 weeks) and exercise. I am happy, pain free, mobile, and I have still not had those three back surgeries.
Joan Holly, R.N. age 72
I had never considered acupuncture before in my life because I was mildly frightened by the idea of multiple needles. However, when traditional therapies such as exercise, massage, and medicines failed to heal back spasms that had lasted for months, my doctor advised me to try acupuncture and gave me the names of a few practitioners. I chose Steve Phillips. I have been amazed by the results. First: I barely notice the needles. They aren't a problem at all, and every acupuncture treatment is a totally relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Second: after two sessions, I no longer needed medications and after four sessions, I am completely out of pain most all of the time. I am very glad that I gave acupuncture a try and have begun recommending acupuncture and Steve Phillips to my friends and family.
Fran F. Female, age 65
In 2004 I began acupuncture treatments with Steve Phillips for muscle pains related to arthritis in my leg and hip. Very often I have limped into his office, and then walked out as if there had never had a problem. During those visits he would often treat a stiff neck as well as a sore thumb which was interfering with piano performances.
Sometimes he has combined treatments for carpal tunnel with a basic energy treatment which has never failed to improve my spirits. Presently, he is treating me for IBS symptoms and there has been much improvement in just three sessions. In addition, after a recent total hip replacement, he is treating my lower back (sacroiliac joint) and helping my knees to recover from misalignment pains which resulted from compensating for that worn out hip.
I am very grateful to Steve for taking away so much pain and diminishing the need for medication, and for doing so with good humor, a very caring heart, and much professionalism.
Many thanks, Steve…
Linda D., age 66
I am a 53 year old woman who trains horses for a living and has a martial arts filled past. In other words, I am a gold mine of old and current injuries, particularly my ankle, shoulders and lower back.
Steve Phillips with his athletic savvy and acupuncture talents has kept me in the best possible condition I need to not only work, but to enjoy life to its fullest. My immune system is better than it's been in years as well as my general health and energy level. His practice combines a kind concern with a no nonsense view towards health care that is quite refreshing. I certainly recommend it strongly.
Sincerely,
Teresa T.
I am 57 years old and approximately 32 years ago I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. Over these 32 years, I have suffered the pain, discomfort and sleeping issues that are common with this disease. I slowly stopped doing things I love, like oil painting and gardening. The pain was too much in my hands and back. Over the years, I have tried hundreds of medications prescribe by the doctors, as well as trying most alternative medicine, hoping to relieve this pain. Some help for a few days, but most do nothing.
I was afraid of the needles, so I never tried Acupuncture until a month ago. That was a stupid decision on my part. After only 1 treatment, the pain subsided to almost nothing. I have now had 4 treatments and the pain remains gone. My flexibility is back and I am once again painting and working in the garden. I would recommend Acupuncture to anyone who has any type of on going pain, but especially if you have Fibromyalgia.
Judy H., age 54
I would like to take this opportunity to write a brief testimonial for Steve Phillips, L.Ac.
I have worked in the medical field now for 15 years and hold licenses in two healthcare modalities. I've had the opportunity to work with many medical doctors and other healthcare professionals and this experience has enriched my knowledge about the human body and many medical treatments and procedures.
Having direct patient contact, my job is quite physical and we are at high risk for musculo-skeletal injuries. I have suffered multiple work related injuries from my job, which had resulted in sciatica from a disc herniation, chronic back pain and chronic shoulder pain.
Surgery was the last resort, so I used both chiropractic and massage therapy. While these were beneficial and offered temporary relief, my condition worsened. Then I heard about acupuncture from a co-worker who had success with it. I was quite skeptical about acupuncture, but I figured that… with my declining condition, what did I have to lose? I would have most likely been unable to continue working the way things were going.
I found Steve in the yellow pages (lucky me) and began treatments in 2003. I honestly laughed after my first treatment because I noticed release in the back muscles which had been in chronic spasm for several years. I continued a steady treatment regimen of chiropractic, massage therapy, and acupuncture. All three are complimentary, but acupuncture was the keystone to my recovery. Steve also taught me special exercises which I will use for the rest of my life which helped bring me out of that trough of pain and suffering.
I've seen two sides of treating ailments: western medicine and chinese medicine. With what I know now, I'd opt for acupuncture first and foremost for any aches, pains, and/or injuries before surgery and pills. I still use and highly recommend Steve for his services… try it, you can't go wrong!
Thank you,
James B. age 47
Steve,
I really hate needles! That tells you how difficult it was for me to go to an Acupuncturist.
My husband had gone to Steve Phillips with great success, so I gave him a try. I had tennis elbow and was in a lot of pain. After five visits, the pain was gone and it never came back. My next visit, some years later, was for shoulder pain on one side and arm pain on the other side. I waited three months to call Steve. By that time, the pain was severe. Again, five visits and it was gone.
I am now seeing him for lower back pain. I have no doubt that it will gone soon.
I have recommended Steve to several friends. They have also been relieved of their pain.
I still hate needles, but continue to go to Steve for permanent relief of my aches.
—Evelyn J.
I decided to try acupuncture after my physician and chiropractor couldn't alleviate my back pain. I was in pain and couldn't stand straight when I went to Acupuncture Healing Arts. In a matter of about an hour, Steve was able to unlock my spasming back muscles and relieve my pain. I was amazed that I was able to leave his office walking tall.
Karl H., age 34
In the 17+ years since I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, I have spent tens of thousands of dollars on medical specialists, prescription medicines, herbal supplements, and therapies (e.g., biofeedback, hypnosis, massage, magnets, chiropractic treatments, Kinesiology)—with little or no results. My chronic pain, fatigue, and all the other symptoms associated with fibromyalgia continued to worsen. I was referred to Steve Phillips in 2000, after my third car accident in less than one year (hit by a tour bus!). In addition to the injuries sustained to my neck and low back from the accidents, the physical trauma made the fibromyalgia excruciating. After receiving acupuncture treatments from Steve for only a month, I noticed that my pain had lessened and stamina/energy increased. I was able to sit, walk, or stand, for two or more hours at a time and not be in agony. Previously, I could not sit, stand or do anything for more than 20 minutes without having to shift/constantly change position, take pain medications, stop the activity, or lie down.
Acupuncture is one of the few things I have found over all these years that gives me relief from my chronic pain and exhaustion and affords me a more normal life. It's not just the acupuncture, but Steve has a calming, compassionate, and positive demeanor that is therapeutic. His caring approach, years of expertise in this art, and extensive knowledge of herbs and natural curatives make him a true healer. I have referred Steve to numerous friends and family members who have also had amazing results.
Carol K.
I am writing this sincere and thankful endorsement of acupuncture treatment in general and Steve Phillips in particular. I began my treatment nearly a year ago for unremitting pain in my right forearm and elbow area that had originated about four months earlier as a result of a lifting injury. Visits with my primary care doctor and medications had not resulted in any significant improvement in my pain level or return of function. Steve was able to provide pain relief after just one visit and within about 3 to 4 treatments the pain was entirely gone. As my elbow treatment was occurring, I had a recurrence of some back pain that was related to a disc compression and sciatica nerve related pain. Steve was able to begin treating this back pain as he was completing the treatment for the elbow. Because these two treatments were so successful and helpful to me, I asked Steve to work on other pain issues in my shoulders with excellent results. The most recent treatments Steve has provided are focused on Carpal Tunnel issues that have developed over the last year. Acupuncture treatment has succeeded in addressing this condition as well. In addition to the acupuncture, Steve offered suggestions such as specific stretching exercises which were helpful in preventing a return of the pain issues in my shoulders, elbow, arms, and wrists.
Steve is an exceptionally knowledgeable practitioner of Acupuncture who has a very professional manner that inspires trust and confidence. His training, his confidence in the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment, and his genuine interest in the overall well being of his clients are all key aspects of his successful treatments. He is an excellent listener who gives his full attention to each person who consults him for assistance. He has the ability to answer questions in a comprehensive and understandable manner that lets his clients know that he has clearly understood their concerns and that encourages the type of additional discussion that enhances treatment decisions and effectiveness.
Finally, Steve offered numerous recommendations that have assisted me in altering my lifestyle in ways that have enabled me to begin losing weight and to eat in a manner that is much healthier. One extremely positive outcome of following Steve's advice and guidance in lifestyle changes has been significantly improved management of my diabetes reflected in blood glucose levels that are more frequently in the normal range. In addition, I think the acupuncture treatment has improved my immune system and resistance to illness such as colds and flu caused by viruses.
Steve has been a pleasure to work with in so many ways. He is personable, professional, flexible, friendly, knowledgeable, and wonderfully competent in performing acupuncture treatments for a wide variety of issues. It has been a pleasure to work with such a caring and competent acupuncture provider and I whole-heartedly endorse and recommend him as an exemplary person and acupuncture practitioner.
Stephen Grouell, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychologist
Testimonial for Steve Phillips
I have been seeing Steve for several years for treatment of arthritis in my left ankle, right knee, both thumbs and lower back. In addition, he keeps my Sacramento allergies at bay by treating my sinuses.
I firmly believe that the acupuncture treatments have helped to keep my arthritic joints moving so that I can swim, do aerobic exercises and lift weights with little discomfort. I am sure that left untreated, my joints would freeze up and leave me very unhappy.
Steve and I have many great intellectual discussions and some that are less intellectual, and there are some that are, as he said last week, "a poke and a joke." My appointments with Steve go by very quickly, either because we are talking or because I feel safe and relaxed enough to take a quick nap.
I would not hesitate to recommend Steve to anyone for acupuncture treatment.
Virginia E. Maulfair, Ed.D.
Testimonial for Steve Phillips' Acupuncture Practice
Kaiser Permanente referred me to Steve for relief of long standing back pain radiating into both legs. Additionally, I have Fibromyalgia. My hope is to stay off pain medication as much as possible, instead relying upon acupuncture.
This was my first acupuncture experience. Surprisingly the period of time while the needles are in place is actually pleasurable due to an incredibly deep relaxation manifest during the session. However no lasting pain relief of any magnitude occurred after the first three sessions. Then, following my forth session a leap occurred; I could walk better due to reduced pain with straighter posture and increased leg strength. These positive results continued to expand with further treatment. Exacerbations of pain and stiffness occur if I miss my twice monthly sessions.
On some visits with Steve, I might also have sinus pain or headache. On those occasions besides the usual acupuncture points my added symptoms are targeted resulting in instant relief. Even abdominal bloating responds immediately to acupuncture. Steve adapts the treatment to changing symptoms.
I am sold on acupuncture for pain relief. Also I am sold on Steve's practice due to his calm, gracious, and professional manner. There exists an aura of peace in Steve's office; never a wait to be seen, only a smooth, quiet and efficient work flow. I highly recommend acupuncture to my friends and always suggest they see Steve.
Margaret Ann Dirks, RN, NP, MPH
On an early spring day of this year my neighbor noticed that I was very distressed with a serious sinus infection (for over 45 days of missed work) and suggested I see Steve Phillips as he'd helped him with a long running chronic sinus infection. This turned out to be great and welcome advice. After only 3 visits with acupuncture and herb treatments I was cured and back to work. Thanks Steve
Keith P.
P.S. I'm so happy with Steve's work that I'm now having him treat my low back pain with promising results.
Steve Phillips has been treating me for around two years assisting me to cope with several chronic medical issues of mine, which include chronic low back pain, a rotator cuff problem in my shoulder, and anxiety. I can say without any doubt that Steve is very professional and has a deep concern for his patients. Prior to each session, Steve is sure to evaluate me and makes sure to address any issues that are currently hindering me. He is then able to adjust my treatment so that I'm able to gain the maximum benefit from the session. Steve has always clearly explained his recommended treatment with me and made sure that I was comfortable with his suggestion before proceeding.
Through the past two years with regular acupuncture treatments I have found that most of my medical issues are much easier to manage. The back and shoulder pain is much improved. In addition, each session has allowed me the time to grow through the solitude and quiet music which allows me to easily fall into a meditative state and focus on my body and spirit. This greatly helps my anxiety.
I would highly recommend to someone who is having difficulty maintaining any medical issue to sincerely consider Steve Phillips Acupuncture Clinic. It truly is an incredible alternative method of treatment to utilize in conjunction with your current medical treatments.
—Todd M.
My name is Eric. I injured my back in a work related injury in 1989. From 1989 to 2004, I was in continuous back and neck pain. I tried physical therapy, medications, chiropractic treatment, but nothing seemed to work. In 2004 I heard about Steve Phillips Acupuncture Clinic and decided to give it a try. After the first treatment I felt instant relief. I could not believe that after two more more treatments, I did not experience any more pain in my back and neck for over a year. In my time off work, I help coach high school baseball. I've been so impressed with Steve Phillips' Acupuncture Clinic, I have recommended several athletes and their parents, as well as co-workers. Not one of my recommendations have come back with negative results. I would recommend Steve Phillips to any one who has physical ailments.
Eric C.
I am a 76 year old man, and have had back problems and sciatica most of my life. I was a baker for 40 years and have been cutting firewood for 34 years. Pain pill do help relieve the pain, but hinder other skills, like driving. Acupuncture with Steve Phillips has helped me to do things I normally could not do.
What I really like about Steve Phillips is that he really listens to my problem and then does the best he knows how to take care of it. All I can say is, "Try him and see for yourself!"
Manny B.
Dear Steve,
Thank you for the acupuncture treatments. You have not only helped me with the treatments for the pain in my back and neck, but for the T.M.J. and inner ear.
Thanks Steve
Fran B.
I've been going to Dr. Steve Phillips for approximately ten years. I had a car accident approximately 15 years ago, when I got hit by a eighteen wheeler truck. My lower back goes out and my body is headed into two different directions. Dr. Steve Phillips, a good chiropractic adjustment and a day off work, I am back to standing up erect without any pains or discomforts. Acupuncture helps to keep my body balanced and less stressed when my lower back is happy. I highly recommend Dr. Phillips for any of your body pains or discomforts.
Peace and Health,
Dr. C.J. Middleton, MS, D.C.
Animal Chiropractor and Healer
It was a fortunate day for me when a friend directed me to Steve Phillips' practice of acupuncture. Now I, in turn, can highly recommend him to others. I suffer from lower back pain and am so grateful for the relief I experience from the skilled acupuncture treatments provided by Steve.
Mary C.
I had never had acupuncture before and never thought I would. However, March 17, 2007 I was cleaning the garage out and my back was hurting before I was done. A few hours later I could hardly move without pain. I had problems in the 2005 but physical therapy and one spinal epidural (steroid) injection put me back on my feet. This time I had 2 epidurals and physical therapy and lots of pain medication. Besides having pain in the back my left leg would give out and I had severe leg cramps. I used a walker until I saw Steve Phillips and had my first treatment with acupuncture. So after being in a walker for 4 months in order to get around I am one very happy lady. I would and have recommended acupuncture to anyone that is living on pain pills and not getting better. Thanks Steve for giving me back my life, I can once again enjoy shopping, concerts and vacation, let alone day to day living.
Linda S.
Because I'm a Neuroscientist (retired), I appreciate the technique of Acupuncture, and know there is a good scientific basis for its success in blocking pain.
I went to Steve for acute lower back pain, and was well and golfing again within a week of a single treatment.
While I was in the office, I noticed a pamphlet about the use of Acupuncture as an alternative to face-lift surgery. I have now been going in for approximately weekly sessions, and after 6 weeks, my friends are looking at me with an unspoken question "What are you doing?" and saying "you look great". Several people haven't recognized me when I approached them at events, and I do believe it's working to lessen lines and tighten up the flesh, over my cheeks especially. I think this is a great alternative to cosmetic surgery, and if Steve thinks it would work on someone's skin, I would highly recommend giving it a try. I understand it doesn't work for everyone, but I'm really pleased with the results on my face.
DWG, Ph.D.
I was hospitalized four weeks ago with horrible backpain. Unable to lay down in my bed or sit down in a chair. I spent more than a week without sleep. Until my husband suggested to me to try acupuncture.
For the first session with Steve Phillips most of my back pain was gone. After the 4th session, I was able to sleep through the night for the first time in 2 weeks.
Thank you so much Steve for your care, understanding and helping to relieve my pain.
Sibel E. S.
I began acupuncture treatment after a minor vehicle crash which caused me neck, shoulder and lower back pain. Physical therapy did not work and seemed to cause me more pain. After a couple of sessions at The Acupuncture Clinic, I began to feel relief. I was sleeping through the night, taking less medication and rating my pain lower and less frequently. I am almost done with my acupuncture sessions and feel wonderful. Steve Phillips from the clinic provides a gentle, relaxing but effective treatment. I have never had acupuncture treatments before but can honestly say that it has helped me with my pain so that I can sleep comfortably and lead a normal life.
Laura G., Elk Grove